Sumter County Drug Lawyer

Drug charges is an umbrella term that covers many different offenses ranging in severity from simple possession and distribution to trafficking. However, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, it is important to take every precaution to avoid the harsh penalties that can threaten your freedom and livelihood for years to come. An adept Sumter County drug lawyer could be an important ally in fighting the charges against you. Call a seasoned criminal defense attorney today to schedule a consultation.

Drug Laws in Sumter County

Drug laws can be separated into two general categories. The first is the category of use and abuse of illegal drugs. The second include offenses relating to the possession, possession for sale (possession with the intent to distribute), the actual sale of illegal drugs (distribution), and the manufacturing of prohibited drugs.

Offenses for Personal Use and Possession

The mere possession of a prohibited drug is a criminal offense in South Carolina. The law also punishes people for the possession of items or implements for drug use such as needles and pipes, which is also known as drug paraphernalia.

Examples of Illegal Substances

The classification of illegal drugs into a schedule puts the public on notice for potential penalties and criminal charges. In South Carolina, illegal drugs include:

• Heroin
• LSD
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine and crack
• Abuse of Prescription Drugs
• Opiates
• Amphetamines
• Marijuana
• Controlled Substances

In many cases, the possession or use of these drugs as a first offense can be resolved in a diversionary drug program such as PTI or Conditional Discharge with the help of a Sumter County drug lawyer.

Penalties for Drug Offenses

The possession for sale, sale, and manufacture of illegal drugs carry severe penalties in South Carolina. For example, trafficking in marijuana can result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine.

Trafficking in methamphetamine and cocaine can result in a sentence of up to 25 years in prison. Whereas, manufacture of methamphetamine can result in a sentence of up to 15 years in prison. Trafficking in heroin can result in a sentence of up to 25 years in prison.

The penalties for trafficking of prescription drugs, the operation of pill mills, obtaining a prescription under false pretenses, and other drug offense penalties will depend on the quantity involved, the drug involved, and the prior history of the person charged with the offense.

Defenses Against these Allegations

A skilled defense lawyer could build a quality defense for someone facing drug charges. For those who have a substance abuse problem and are charged with the personal use or possession of an illegal drug, several defenses may be available to fight the charges. Diversion from criminal prosecution may be possible. Attendance at drug rehabilitation programs, counseling, and therapy can be required by the court and voluntary participation in these programs can only help a defendant.

More serious drug offenses, such as possession for sale (possession with the intent to distribute), distribution, or manufacturing can be some of the most challenging criminal defense cases in the courts. Most drug cases are made with informants, controlled buys, surveillance, and search warrants. Each of these law enforcement methods has rules the police must follow or the evidence obtained could be thrown out of court and the charges reduced or dismissed.

Speaking with a Sumter County Drug Attorney

Do not face a drug charge without consulting with a Sumter County drug lawyer who could fight tirelessly for your rights. An aggressive Sumter County drug attorney could thoroughly investigate all aspects of a case to create a strong defense that could give you the best chance of a positive outcome. Call today to learn more.